Fall 2012 TV preview: Ranking 21 new broadcast network series

ABC

7 p.m. Sept. 27, ABC Andre Braugher (right) and Scott Speedman (left) play the commanders of a nuclear submarine crew that goes rogue in the most suspenseful and exciting pilot of the fall season. Rockford native Shawn Ryan ("The Shield," "The Chicago Code") created the drama, which is as see-worthy as anything on the fall schedule. I worry where the show will go week after week, but I have confidence in Ryan so am expecting good things.

7 p.m. Sept. 27, ABC Andre Braugher (right) and Scott Speedman (left) play the commanders of a nuclear submarine crew that goes rogue in the most suspenseful and exciting pilot of the fall season. Rockford native Shawn Ryan ("The Shield," "The Chicago Code") created the drama, which is as see-worthy as anything on the fall schedule. I worry where the show will go week after week, but I have confidence in Ryan so am expecting good things. (ABC)

The broadcast networks have started rolling out their new series for the fall and of the 21 new shows they will debut in the coming months, only a handful merit much more than a shrug. Not to be a Debbie Downer, but I had a hard time picking a Top 5. That assessment might be a bit unfair. I've seen just the pilot episodes of most of the new shows and it's difficult to judge an entire season by one episode. Last spring I gave NBC's "Smash" a rave review after seeing the well-done pilot; it quickly floundered and I could barely watch it just a few weeks later. I have reservations about all the shows in my Top 5 this fall, so consider that when reading this preview. The cable networks still are churning out the highest quality shows. And that's the case again this fall, although PBS is offering some intriguing options and at least a couple the freshmen broadcast network series rise above mediocre. Several returning network shows are likely to dazzle with their new seasons. Here are the 21 new network shows, ranked roughly in the order I like them. But as I said, that's probably going to change when I see more episode over the coming weeks. Curt Wagner, RedEye's Show Patrol READ: Cable shows worth watching. READ: Scoop on returning shows. READ: September TV premiere dates Want more? Discuss this article and others on Show Patrol's Facebook page.